Pocahontas – Continuing their commitment to law enforcement, the National Wild Turkey Federation will honor Sgt. Matt Byrd with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for his efforts in conserving America’s wildlife.

Byrd will be recognized as the NWTF’s Arkansas Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year during its 32nd annual Convention and Sport Show held Feb. 21 to 24 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Ga.

The NWTF initiated The State Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award in 2000 to highlight the contributions from wildlife officers across the country.

“Without the tremendous level of support for wild turkey conservation from wildlife officers such as Mr. Byrd, restoration efforts and wildlife management strategies would never have succeeded,” said NWTF CEO Rob Keck. “We wanted to ensure that they receive the thanks and recognition they so richly deserve.”

By earning the State Wildlife Officer of the Year award, Sgt. Byrd and other state winners are eligible for the NWTF’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award, which will be presented during the NWTF’s Awards Banquet Saturday, Feb. 23 at the Convention and Sport Show.

Sgt. Byrd is assigned to Northeast Arkansas, where the Mississippi Delta meets the Ozarks.

“Were it not for Sgt. Byrd’s comprehensive enforcement efforts, this section of the state would not have the quality turkey hunting it now enjoys,” said Lt. Rick Emery of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Lt. Emery adds that Sgt. Byrd’s 100 percent conviction rate of poachers in the past year is a testament to the thorough job he does and his exceptional investigation skills.

Sgt. Byrd is also continually in the public eye as an ambassador for wildlife.

“He regularly teaches hunter education courses and is involved with hunting and fishing events involving Arkansas’ youth. His dedication in this area helps to ensure that our hunting heritage will be alive and well in future generations,” said Emery.